Here are some common questions about Autogas. Click on the links below to read the answers.

• Q. How does LPG compare in performance to petrol?
• Q. Why is autogas better for the engine?
• Q. Autogas - market development
• Q. What about refuelling for fleets - your own refuelling point?
• Q. What costs are involved?

A. How does LPG compare in performance to petrol?

One gallon of LPG weighs approximately 5lbs at one atmosphere pressure and 15 degrees centigrade, compared to 7.2lbs with petrol. The lowest calculated combustion efficiency of LPG is approximately 19.84 BTU / Lb. The resultant calculation suggests a theoretical increase in consumption of around 20% but in practice, the increase in consumption is very small depending on engine tune and condition etc and is more than compensated for by a significant saving on the fuel itself.

The discrepancy between the theoretical and practical increase in consumption is due to the efficiency of the equipment used for conversions. Where LPG replaces petrol as a fuel, a small power loss may be experienced. This power is easily determined on a rolling road dynometer, but it is not apparent on the road because the difference is so small.

The engine however will appear to be more smooth and responsive than its petrol counterpart.

As a rule of thumb:-

1 litre of DIESEL = 1.54 litres of LPG

1 litre of PETROL = 1.20 litres of LPG

A. Why is autogas better for the engine?

Oil and filter life can be doubled as LPG leaves less deposits in the combustion process than petrol / diesel, thus reducing the chances of oil contamination. Cylinder and piston wear is reduced because LPG mixes better with the air during cold starts as it enters the chamber as a gas, as opposed to diesel and petrol, which enter as a liquid.

A. Autogas - market development

Although different refueling connectors are being used at the present time, a standard system will be introduced that will also be the standard throughout Europe.

A. What about refuelling for fleets - your own refuelling point?

The retail price of approximately 39 pence per litre can be dramatically reduced if a fleet has its own Flogas refueling system.

Typically, these types of installations will suit an LPG fleet that can return back to a central base to refuel. Flogas can advise you on your bunkered storage requirements, depending upon vehicle applications. As a minimum, Flogas will be looking for a minimum of between 5 - 10 vehicles, with the potential for the vehicle fleet to grow.

The unit itself will normally consist of one or more LPG storage vessels and a liquid transfer pump, feeding a hose and filling nozzle assembly incorporating a "breakaway coupling". This is designed to ensure minimal product release in the event that the vehicle be driven away whilst still connected to the installation.

Optional extras available include the provision of a gas dispensing meter, which can be a simple measuring device or a sophisticated "petrol pump" style unit. The unit is also compatible with a number of fuel card readers such as Triscan. It is also possible in the majority of cases to link to your existing fuel management system. Flogas can install the systems on site or alternatively, we can supply them fully assembled on a pre-fabricated refueling unit which only requires connection to a suitable electrical supply.

A. What costs are involved?

With a significant proportion of the conversion costs being funded by the Energy Savings Trust (POWERSHIFT), converting to Autogas has never been easier. The vast majority of manufacturers now have an LPG programme in place and should be able to advise you accordingly regarding vehicle types applicable to your business requirements. Typically, the costs are as follows:-

PETROL LIGHT VAN / CAR = £1,000 - £1,500 (£250 - £750 depending on grant)

DIESEL CONVERSIONS = From £1,300 - £10,000 subject to qualifications

The storage facilities and equipment can be installed at a relatively low cost, depending on the equipment chosen and the number of vehicles using the facility.

Flogas will consider a free installation, again this is subject to anticipated usage and the equipment chosen.